Since the first edition of the organic wholesalers' overview in 2015, followed by its updates in 2019 and 2022, the sector has undergone significant changes. On the occasion of Natexpo, Bio Linéaires is publishing an update of its overview to understand how these operators have responded to fluctuations in the organic market. With a turnover now approaching one billion euros, compared to 560 million euros in 2015, organic wholesalers are meeting market challenges thanks to their resilience and adaptability.
Comparing the turnover of the companies featured in the 2021 and 2023 editions, we observe an overall decline in wholesale activity of 4,6%. However, this decline masks a more nuanced reality: among the 33 companies concerned, more than half saw their turnover increase, demonstrating their capacity to adapt and resilience.
Specialized manufacturers, importers, and wholesalers have been the hardest hit in recent years. In contrast, general wholesalers, both national and regional, have shown strong resilience, posting average growth of nearly 13% between 2021 and 2023. This performance is the result of ongoing efforts, such as investments in land, logistics optimization, the adoption of digital technologies, and the professionalization of teams.
One billion euros in turnover
The diversification of distribution channels, particularly towards bulk, zero waste, and especially out-of-home catering (RHD), also played a key role. Despite the challenges, wholesalers increased their share of sales in this sector by an average of 84%. Although the 20% organic threshold required in collective catering under the EGalim law has not yet been reached, these companies have committed to creating specific services and ranges to meet this growing demand.
Despite the concentration of specialized distribution and economic challenges, organic wholesalers continue to play a crucial role in the distribution landscape. The sector's turnover is now approaching €1 billion, a significant jump from €560 million in 2015, demonstrating the resilience and dynamism of these players.
Find the “Wholesalers” file in Bio Linéaires No. 114 (September/October 2024): https://www.biolineaires.com/produit/bio-lineaires-n114-version-numerique/
Program : the map of French wholesalers, the evolution of organic wholesalers' turnover since 2021, as well as our focus (presentation sheets and interviews) by wholesaler family: generalists, manufacturers - importers, specialists, and RHD...